Bacon1

A recent study from the University of Exeter reveals that widely accepted ideas about how the Black Death traveled across Asia and into Europe were based not on contemporary records, but on a 14th-century Arabic poem. The poem, penned by Ibn al‑Wardi in Aleppo around 1348-49, is part of the maqāma literary tradition. Researchers found that this work—originally intended as creative storytelling—was later misinterpreted as a literal historical document. For centuries, historians believed the plague bacteria rapidly swept from Central Asia through Persia, the Black Sea region and into Europe within a few years. This “quick transit” theory was reinforced in part because later chroniclers treated Ibn al-Wardi’s text as factual. Modern genetic and historical evidence, however, now calls that timeline into question. The new research highlights that the poem’s narrative reflects metaphor and storytelling, not accurate pathogen mapping. Beyond revising how we view the plague’s trajectory, the study underscores how medieval societies used literature—specifically the maqāma form—to process trauma such as mass death and social upheaval. Far from mere historical evidence, these stories provide insight into how communities made sense of catastrophe. By reconsidering this poetic source, scholars are opening up investigation into earlier and lesser-known epidemics, and adjusting how we analyze cultural responses to disease and disaster. Key Takeaways: A 14th-century Arabic poem by Ibn al-Wardi, originally literary, was later misread as a factual account of the Black Death’s spread. The study challenges the “quick transit” theory that the plague swept from Central Asia to Europe in mere years. Medieval artistic forms like the maqāma reveal how past societies processed crisis—offering cultural insight beyond epidemiological data. Adapted From https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251111005957.htm Link to study Muhammed Omar, Nahyan Fancy. Mamluk Maqāmas on the Black Death. Journal of Arabic and Islamic Studies, 2025; 25 (4): 151 DOI: 10.5617/jais.12790

Alright then… everyone better start putting a little something aside, because when the Cameroni wedding celebration finally happens, it’s going to be huge—and you know we’re all going to need deep pockets and strong livers.🤣☺️ Who's your best man?

Please, leave Mr Trump out of this. Discuss the topic. Thank you

Aekachai Jaroenarpornwatana, M.D. Foot & Ankle specialist orthopaedic surgeon, in BKK. Trained in the US. Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand | Samitivej https://share.google/DnAo66T7wifLdyIJZ

This chap, an Orthopaedic surgeon specialises in Foot & Ankle problems. Dr. Apisan Chinanuvathana | Bangkok Hospital Headquarter https://share.google/BlOj8y6FWAiqgU2rr When you've seen him, I'd be interested to know how the consultantion went.

I see you two are bickering, yet again. I asked you to stop this nonsense on another thread. If you don't stop, you may well be sanctioned. @Harrisfan @transam

@Harrisfan @transam Stop the bickering.

What do you mean?

@Usnh Provide a link, or the thread will be closed. 18. Social media content is acceptable in most forums. However, in factual areas such as, but not limited to news, current affairs and health topics, social media cannot be used unless it is from a credible news media source or a government agency and must include a link to the original source. In some circumstances, a moderator may relax this rule and this will be determined on a case-by-case basis. If this rule is relaxed, a moderator will post a public notice explaining the limit and scope of the relaxation.

Flame posts removed @Stressed Eric

Have you bought a new phone yet, Andrew?

I've ordered one of these, & I'll get some Tata Gold when it's delivered.

Aye, tha’rt reet, lad. Water from t’Yorkshire hills is reet grand. (says a southern shandy) 🤣

There are a lot of RCT for vaccines using a placebo.

Thousands of demonstrators, many identifying with “Generation Z,” rallied across Mexico in a wave of protests sparked by the November 1 assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Alberto Manzo Rodríguez. The youth-led movement—angry about corruption, escalating drug violence, and government inaction—expanded from Mexico City to dozens of cities nationwide. In Mexico City’s Zócalo Plaza, what began as a peaceful march deteriorated into clashes. A hooded faction tore down metal fences around the National Palace, prompting police to respond with tear gas, shields, and fire extinguishers. According to authorities, about 100 police officers were injured (40 hospitalized), and 20 protesters also suffered injuries. Meanwhile, in other cities like Guadalajara, dozens more protesters were detained and hurt. Many participants carried the pirate skull flag popularized by the One Piece anime—a symbol now widespread in Gen Z protests around the world. Protesters openly condemned President Claudia Sheinbaum’s party, Morena, calling for harsher measures against organized crime. They also voiced frustration over rising corruption and demand accountability for Manzo’s death, chanting, “Carlos didn’t die—his government killed him.” The group calling itself “Generation Z Mexico” claims its movement is non-partisan and rooted in youth disillusionment with entrenched power. But Sheinbaum’s government has cast doubt on its authenticity, arguing that right-wing forces and social media bots are amplifying the protests. Key Takeaways: Gen Z-led protests erupted across Mexico, fueled by anger over the murder of Uruapan’s anti-crime mayor. Clashes turned violent in Mexico City, leaving at least 120 people injured, including dozens of police officers. Protesters demand tougher action on crime and corruption; the government warns of foreign or political manipulation. Adapted From https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/16/gen-z-protests-against-mexico-president-turn-violent-amid-anger-over-mayors-death

Nonsense

In Canada, a growing debate surrounds whether elected officials should have the right to block their constituents on social media. While platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook have become important tools for political communication — enabling MPs, mayors, and other leaders to share updates and engage the public — some politicians are using them to silence critical voices. According to reports, officials such as federal MPs and provincial leaders have blocked users who challenge their views or policies. Many politicians defend their blocking behavior as a necessary defense against online harassment, threats, or hate speech. At the same time, critics—including civil liberties groups—argue that this practice undermines democratic accountability. Blocking can prevent constituents from participating in public debate, especially when the politician’s account is closely tied to their official duties. In some instances, the issue has landed in legal grey areas. For example, in a past case involving Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson, three residents challenged his right to block them, asserting their Charter-protected free expression rights. Legal commentary suggests that if a politician uses their social media platform like an official communication channel, blocking critical constituents could violate democratic norms. There’s currently no clear, consistent policy or legal framework in Canada that defines when and how public officials should moderate or restrict access to their social media content. The debate pits the safety of public figures and moderation challenges against the public’s right to hold their elected representatives accountable in digital “town halls” — raising important questions about online speech, free expression, and modern democracy. Key Takeaways: Canadian politicians increasingly use social media to interact with constituents, but some block critics — raising questions about access and accountability. While some justify blocking as a way to curb harassment, others argue it suppresses democratic engagement and may violate free expression principles. There’s no uniform legal or ethical standard yet in Canada defining when public officials can block users, highlighting a gap in digital governance. Adapted From https://theconversation.com/should-canadian-politicians-be-allowed-to-block-their-constituents-on-social-media-269165

A planned auction in Germany of more than 600 Holocaust-era items sparked outrage from survivors and memory-groups, who called for the sale to be canceled. The auction, hosted by Felzmann in Neuss and titled “The System of Terror”, included deeply personal documents such as letters from concentration camp prisoners, Gestapo index cards, and other Nazi-era paperwork containing the names of victims. The International Auschwitz Committee condemned the auction as “cynical and shameless,” saying it turns human suffering into commodities for profit. Christoph Heubner, a leader of the committee, urged the auction house to show basic decency and halt the sale. European Jewish organizations also expressed concern that such artifacts could end up in the hands of buyers who glorify Nazi ideology. In response to the pressure and criticism, the Felzmann auction listing was removed from its website by Sunday afternoon. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Felzmann defended the sale, arguing that private collectors help preserve historical memory through research. Key Takeaways Over 600 Holocaust artifacts—including prisoner letters and Gestapo documents—were up for auction, sparking widespread condemnation. Survivor groups argue these items belong in museums or memorials, not sold for profit. The auction house defends the sale as a way to preserve history, while critics warn of moral and ethical risks. Adapted From https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/16/german-auction-house-urged-to-cancel-sale-of-holocaust-artefacts

Virus isolation https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Microbiology/Microbiology_(OpenStax)/06%3A_Acellular_Pathogens/6.03%3A_Isolation_Culture_and_Identification_of_Viruses https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9002075/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1128/9781555815974.ch3 Goodnight 😴

Flame post removed @howlee101

Provocative post removed. @JimCM

Flame removed @novacova

From the Telegraph article: " if connection were discovered" "could link"

Flame removed @MalcolmB

Flame removed @Harrisfan